A PUBLIC meeting about a scheme to build almost fifty new homes on playing fields in Northwich is being held on Friday (May 6).

The proposal includes plans to build 49 homes, 12 apartments and a 75-bed care home on St Johns Playing Field, adjoining Griffiths Park.

The plans for the site have been produced by NPL Group Ltd and HB Villages Ltd. The 49 new homes plan is comprised of 20 two-bedroom homes, 22 three-bedroom homes and seven four-bedroom properties, as well as 12 one-bedroom apartments and the three-storey care home.

In a presentation outlining the plans, developers say the scheme represented 'a high-quality proposal' that would deliver 'much-needed affordable housing' and care provision in the town.

Northwich Guardian: Detailed outline plans for the Griffiths Park siteDetailed outline plans for the Griffiths Park site

“The site comprises a highly sustainable location within walking distance to a range of services and facilities,” they say.

“It is therefore considered an appropriate location for a housing development.”

Although the proposal would result in the loss of the playing field, the developer state they had agreed 'in principle' to make a financial contribution to Cheshire West and Chester Council should the plan go-ahead.

“This will allow the council to deliver high quality replacement facilities locally,” they added.

“The exact financial contribution and where the funds will be allocated, will be finalised throughout the planning process.”

Northwich Guardian: An artists impression of the one of the proposed homes - Photo: Avison YoungAn artists impression of the one of the proposed homes - Photo: Avison Young

However, Olwyn Dean, the chair of The Friends of Griffiths Park, said residents in the area were concerned at the proposals and she had organised the public meeting as a result.

“I was contacted when people received fliers telling them about the proposals,” she said.

“Needless to say, there are strong feelings about this as there are already plans to build 380 houses on land to the side of Griffiths Park.

“I have organised the public meeting so that people can voice their concerns and I have invited Rudheath Parish Council, Northwich Town Council, Cllr Helen Treeby, Esther McVey MP and David Stobbs from NPL to attend.

“I am looking at various possibilities including tree preservation orders and maybe even trying to get the field declared as a village green but need to garner support for that as well as collecting evidence.”

The meeting will take place at Rudheath Social Club on Friday, May 6, at 7pm.